More than 500 community members gathered in Aykel town on June 26, 2025, to watch a powerful peace-oriented theatrical performance produced by 25 local youth from different art clubs and theatre groups. The theatrical performance event, organized by the Ghion Peace, Reconciliation and Development Association (GPRDA), under the funding of Internews was aimed at serving as a platform for community members to come together, share their stories, and build mutual respect and trust.
The participating youth had previously undergone training in peacebuilding through theatrical performance. Following four days of intensive rehearsals, they brought their knowledge and creativity to the stage, using art as a platform to address pressing issues of conflict, reconciliation, and social cohesion.
The play, structured as a tragedy, explored the breakdown of communal trust and harmony caused by recent socio-economic and political crises affecting Aykel and surrounding areas. Central characters included victims of kidnapping, perpetrators, respected elders, and a mother figure symbolizing Ethiopia. At the height of the drama, kidnappers escalated ransom demands, leaving the victim in deplorable conditions. In a moving monologue, the mother figure spoke about societal decay and the urgent need for unity. Her words of compassion and wisdom triggered remorse in the kidnappers, who eventually released the captive.
The performance vividly portrayed the destructive consequences of violence and highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in restoring peace. It also conveyed a powerful message that peace cannot be achieved by individuals or institutions alone, but requires the active engagement of the entire community.
Audience members described the play as both emotional and thought-provoking. Many expressed that the performance not only reflected real challenges faced by the community but also inspired hope for reconciliation and peaceful coexistence-particularly between the Amhara and Qimant peoples, who have experienced strained relations in recent years.
By supporting such youth-led initiatives, GPRDA continues to demonstrate the transformative role of the arts in fostering dialogue, healing, and cooperation among communities.
